Watzke: Dortmund want to sign Achraf Hakimi, but it will be difficult

Dortmund’s match with Mainz was a weird one. It was an ugly game that saw the momentum swing between the two teams quite a few times, but in the end BVB got the win.

Achraf Hakimi didn’t have his best game against 05, but he has been a revelation for Lucien Favre’s team this season. The 20-year-old is at Dortmund on a two-year loan from Real Madrid. He’s set to return to Madrid after next season, but according to Hans-Joachim Watzke, the Black and Yellows want to sign Hakimi on a permanent basis.

The deal will presumably be difficult because Real Madrid want to hold onto their talented right back. Hakimi has contributed one goal and six assists so far this season. Those are impressive numbers for someone playing from the back.

BVB were just able to sign Paco Alcácer permanently from Barcelona, but Paco is 25-years-old and thus FCB were willing to let him leave. It’s unclear if their rivals in the Spanish capital will be convinced to part with a younger player like Hakimi.

Madrid are a bit of a mess right now. They’re struggling in Spain and probably have to figure out their play on the pitch before they can start making transfers and sales for their future. But then again, it is Florentino Perez who runs that club, so anything is possible.

Hakimi is certainly enjoying his time at Dortmund more than he was at Madrid. A move could suit both parties in the long run.